Former Upshur administrator to work in Harrision

June 4, 2013

Former Upshur County Administrator Willie Parker has resurfaced in a similar role with the Harrison County Commission.

Parker, who cited personal reasons for his abrupt resignation in May from his job of more than 20 years in Upshur County, was hired by the Harrison County Commission last week following a 90-minute executive session.

"For a county administrator's position, and with Harrison County being one of the larger counties in our area, this is a capstone position," Parker said. "I'm looking forward to the opportunity."

Commissioners had traditionally run the day-to-day operations with the help of an administrative assistant in the past.

"They looked at my background, my education and my experience, and I feel confident I have the abilities they were looking for," Parker said. "The commissioners have been very supportive."

Commissioner Bernie Fazzini said the opportunity to hire a person with Parker's background "doesn't come along very often." He said Parker has a vast knowledge of county government and state law.

Commissioner Ron Watson said Parker's experience and reputation as "the go-to person with other county administrators" made it tough for the other applicants to compete.

Parker will have a salary of $75,000 in his new role. He is expected to review Harrison County's policies and procedures.

He said one of the first tasks to be undertaken will be updating the county's personnel handbook. He said he will also be looking at implementing an inventory tracking system.

Parker said he will continue to reside in Upshur County for the immediate future.